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8 News Jacqueline Payne A NEW approach that uses sports psychology to train young fighter pilots is already paying off at RAAF Base Williamtown if the results of the most recent graduations are anything to go by. Air Combat Group Commander AIRCDRE Steve Roberton said eight new fighter pilots, including two exchange pilots, had worked extremely hard over the past six months and should be proud of their achievements. “This achievement is even more pronounced as 2OCU are about to graduate their third F/A-18A/B Operational Conversion Course without suspension of a trainee,” AIRCDRE Roberton said. “Air Combat Group has put into place a training approach that uses concepts around performance or sports psychology to enhance fighter aircrew training. “This approach encourages fast jet aircrew trainees and instructors to learn about, and develop an understanding of, the key mental skills for success in fighter aviation.” AIRCDRE Roberton said the program also used select flying instructors as performance coaches to help trainees develop their mental skills during lead-in fighter training and operational conversion courses. “We also utilise professional psychologist support and supervision as a proactive measure to improve both trainee and instructional performance,” he said. “Although it is early stages in the new program, which was introduced mid-way through 2015, it appears to have reaped rewards already. “The commanding officer of 2OCU throughout this time, WGCDR Adrian Maso, should be singled out for his role in leading this cultural reform and the hat-trick of successful training outcomes in the F/A-18A/B Operational Conversion Course.’’ AIRCDRE Roberton said the trainee pilots and instructors should be justifiably proud of their achievements. OC 81 Wing GPCAPT Tim Alsop also praised WGCDR Maso’s approach to adopting a new training culture. “These graduating fighter pilots will be put to the test when they join our operational squadrons over the next few years,” he said. “The new fighter pilots have an exciting future. They have the opportunity to fly F/A-18 A/B Hornets and F/A-18F Super Hornets – but also, in the near future, EA-18G Growlers. “The F35-A Joint Strike Fighter is also expected to arrive in Australia in late 2018, and these young pilots can expect to fly the fifth-generation technology.” AIRF RCE February 9, 2017 A new way of thinking Australia’s newest fast jet pilots after graduating at RAAF Base Williamtown. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman